Sara and John say...

Look at its shape on the map and you’ll Chile understand why Chile has such a diversity of climates! Adventurers to Patagonia will find this stunning glacial wilderness most accessible in summer; but head further north and you’ll find that, year-round, the weather suits an array of tastes and activities.

Many say that spring is the time of year to be in the capital, Santiago. Winter showers are easing, the sun is strengthening and daytime temperatures are rising through the 20s Celsius. September and October see the spring flowers blooming across the Lake District, the central valley. And even further north towards the often barren Atacama Desert, there’s a flush of verdant growth.

As the heat continues to build into summer, so nature lovers are drawn to the delights of Patagonia - freeing itself from the long winter’s icy grip. The scenery is stunning across Torres del Paine National Park, where it’s also the driest time of year. Temperatures can nudge well into double figures Celsius by day, although the nights remain very chilly, especially at high altitude.
But if it’s a warmer beach summer you’re after, then the coastline near Valparaiso offers sunshine and temperatures in the mid-20s. Perfect!

As the heat mellows into autumn and the leaves turn a golden brown, there’s no better time to travel across Chile and enjoy the many wine-harvesting festivals that take place across the country. Then, as the south hunkers down for winter, warmth lingers on further north. While Santiago holds onto temperatures in the mild mid-teens, you can take a day-trip to ski in the many Andean resorts that hover above the capital. What a great climate and a great country!

Quick facts about

Chile